Officers are now appealing for information on a number of vehicle sightings in the area at the time of the incident.

Inspector Scott Richardson of Wester Hailes Police Station said: “The JCB digger was stolen from the Keepmoat building site on Calder Road, and was seen in the area in convoy with a black Mercedes 4x4 and a white Ford flatbed truck. I’m keen to hear from anyone who may have seen any of these vehicles and may be able to assist the investigation.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting incident 326 of 31st January or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.